Sprinting: running at speed
Lesson details
Learning outcome
I can develop my sprinting technique and analyse my performance to try and run faster.
Key learning points
- Move: consistently sprinting fast requires our head up, pumping arms, elbows bent and running on the balls of our feet.
- Think: when applying the correct technique, we are more balanced and can sprint with a smooth action.
- Feel: improving our technique after receiving feedback demonstrates that we have determination to sprint faster.
- Connect: sharing ideas and tips with our partner can help them to improve their sprinting technique and sprint faster.
Keywords
Sprinting - when you run and use all of your energy to go as fast as you can for a short distance
Technique - the method we use to perform a task
Faster - moving or doing something more quickly than before
Common misconception
Pupils slow down before the end of the race/ sprint, preparing to stop directly at the finish line.
Explain to pupils that they should not begin to slow down until they have crossed the finish line as it will allow other runners to catch them up and potentially overtake them.
Teacher tip
Use the phrase 'hip to lip' to help pupils pump their arms without using too much energy.
Equipment
worksheet, stopwatch, 30+ cones
Content guidance
Risk assessment required - physical activity
Supervision
Adult supervision required
Licence
Prior knowledge starter quiz
4 Questions
Q1.Which distance is most suitable for sprinting?
Q2.What should you do with your arms when sprinting?
Q3.What can help you to sprint faster?
Q4.What do you need to continue to improve your sprint speed?
Assessment exit quiz
4 Questions
Q1.What can running on the balls of your feet help you to do?
Q2.Which word describes doing something more quickly than before?
Q3.What could happen if you begin to slow down before the finish line?
Q4.What are you showing when you use feedback to support you continuing to try and improve?
To help you plan your 4 physical education lesson on: Sprinting: running at speed, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs...
To help you plan your 4 physical education lesson on: Sprinting: running at speed, download all teaching resources for free and adapt to suit your pupils' needs.
The starter quiz will activate and check your pupils' prior knowledge, with versions available both with and without answers in PDF format.
We use learning cycles to break down learning into key concepts or ideas linked to the learning outcome. Each learning cycle features explanations with checks for understanding and practice tasks with feedback. All of this is found in our slide decks, ready for you to download and edit. The practice tasks are also available as printable worksheets and some lessons have additional materials with extra material you might need for teaching the lesson.
The assessment exit quiz will test your pupils' understanding of the key learning points.
Our video is a tool for planning, showing how other teachers might teach the lesson, offering helpful tips, modelled explanations and inspiration for your own delivery in the classroom.
Explore more key stage 2 physical education lessons from the Athletics: athletic challenges developed unit, dive into the full primary physical education curriculum, or learn more about lesson planning.